Community Service Aide

Community Service Aide – Columbia Police Department

Starting Pay : $18.59 per hour

Plus : $1.00 / hour shift differential for all hours worked between 6 : 00 PM and 6 : 00 AM

Schedule : 12-hour shifts, 80 hours in a 14-day period (varied days depending on assigned squad)

Positions Available : 9

Application Deadline : January 15, 2026 (preferred) — Open until filled

The City of Columbia Police Department is seeking Community Service Aides to support patrol operations by handling non-emergency calls for service, most frequently related to traffic crashes. This position provides an excellent opportunity to serve your community, gain valuable law enforcement experience, and work alongside a dedicated team of professionals who protect and serve the citizens of Columbia.

About the Role

Community Service Aides respond to non-fatal traffic crashes, handle minor misdemeanor calls with no suspect information, and provide exceptional customer service to citizens both in the field and at the police department’s front desk. This role relieves the workload of sworn officers by managing routine calls and administrative duties—helping the department maintain quick and effective public service.

Key Responsibilities

Respond to non-fatal traffic crashes and complete required reports for submission to the Missouri State Highway Patrol.

Direct or block traffic, issue citations, and interact professionally with citizens at crash or incident scenes.

Handle misdemeanor calls for service where no suspect information is available, preparing accurate police reports.

Operate the front desk on a rotating basis, serving as the first point of contact for visitors to the police department.

Maintain and use the Missouri Uniform Law Enforcement System (MULES) to enter, confirm, and remove records such as stolen property, warrants, and missing persons.

Communicate with other law enforcement agencies to share time-sensitive information.

Maintain professionalism and composure during stressful or challenging interactions.

Work varied shifts, including nights, weekends, and holidays.

Perform other related duties as assigned.

Minimum Qualifications

High school diploma or equivalent required.

Less than one year of related experience.

Valid driver’s license.

MULES certification required within six months of hire.

Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities

Knowledge of local and state laws, departmental policies, and standard police procedures.

Ability to communicate clearly —verbally and in writing—under high-stress conditions.

Strong customer service and problem-solving skills.

Ability to handle confidential information discreetly and professionally.

Skilled in preparing accurate and detailed reports.

Capable of working independently with minimal supervision.

Must be able to operate police vehicles and related equipment safely.

Ability to multitask, stay alert, and prioritize duties effectively.

Work Environment and Physical Requirements

Work may occur both indoors and outdoors , including in extreme weather conditions (cold, heat, rain, snow).

Frequent interaction with hostile or irate individuals or persons with known violent backgrounds.

Regularly exposed to noise, fumes, and other environmental hazards.

Must be able to exert up to 35 pounds occasionally and perform physical activities such as standing, walking, driving, stooping, or balancing.

Why Join the City of Columbia Police Department?

Serve your community in a meaningful and impactful way.

Gain hands-on law enforcement experience and professional training.

Work in a team environment where integrity, service, and respect are core values.

Excellent City benefits , including paid leave, insurance coverage, and retirement plans.

Shift differential pay for evening and overnight work.

How to Apply

Apply online at www.gocomojobs.com by January 15, 2026 (preferred).

For assistance or accommodations, call or TTY 711 (MO Relay).

Equal Opportunity Statement

The City of Columbia is a Merit, Affirmative Action, Equal Opportunity Employer – Male / Female.

Pre-employment drug testing is required.

The City of Columbia participates in the federal E-Verify work authorization program.

Salary / Compensation : $18.59 per hour

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